Cover letters

When

A cover letter introduces your resume when you are not there to do so. You typically do not need to bring a cover letter to a job fair with you, but would want to include one when applying for a job you found on-line.

How

Mail or email a concise and dynamic introduction of your resume. Include specific information about why you want to work for the employer; see samples below. Do not reiterate the information on your resume. The cover letter should introduce you and highlight your best qualifications. You want to excite them enough to want to look at your resume.

Why

Some employers want to see your writing style and expect the cover letter may be a better indicator of this than your resume. It is also polite and some employers really like them!